City Council

CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING A Regular Meeting of the City Council was held in-person on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 7:00 P.M. for the purpose of transacting any and all business. Notice of this meeting was posted on May 23, 2023, at 3:49 P.M. This meeting is being recorded and is live on S.A.T.V. and Zoom unless technological issues interrupt the transmission. All Councillors were present Council President Stott presided. Councillor Dominguez moved to dispense with the reading of the record of the previous meeting. It was so voted. President Stott requested that everyone please rise to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Councillor Prosniewski requested and received suspension of the rules to allow Mayor McCarthy to speak. Mayor McCarthy spoke about the FY2024 budget and that there is a 2% COLA increase. PUBLIC TESTIMONY 1. Sheila Manzana, 11 Treetops, Danvers – Bella Verona 2. Carlos Bamaca, 31 Sewall St., Lynn - Bella Verona 3. Filipe Zamborlini, 19 Linden St., Salem - Bella Verona 4. Anamarija Kristic, 5 Sargent Ave., Beverly – Bella Verona 5. Steve Kapantais, Public Testimony, Gun Signs, Bella Verona 6. Michael Giauque, 105 Essex St., Salem – Bella Verona 7. Nicole Henkelman, 23 Oliver St., Salem – Bella Verona 8. Christine Ingemi, 34 Loring Ave., Salem – Bella Verona 9. Joseph Manzi, 12 Winter Island Rd., Salem – Bella Verona (#277) – INFLAMMABLE LICENSE FOR BERMAN PROPERTIES (TROPICAL PRODUCTS – 373 HIGHLAND AVENUE Hearing on the application from Berman Properties (Tropical Products) for an Inflammable License to store 4000 gallons of LP-gas located at 373 Highland Ave. Ed Berman, President of Tropical Products appeared in favor. License is for propane tanks for heat. The building was designed for Natural Gas but the National Grid line does not go that far up Highland Ave. It would cost around $300,000.00 to put a line in. Considered green gas pipe in building, but issue with size of pipe. So, requesting four (4) 1,000 tanks to heat the building, which is the same as the animal shelter and the gym. It’s common in this area.  2 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Morsillo stated she was getting many questions from the neighbors regarding safety measures. What measures are being set up in the back of building to make sure if icy out that trucks do not slid into the tanks. Mr. Berman replied that the tanks are on a cement platform and also bollards are in place. As far as sliding, they keep the road clean by plowing, sanding and salting. Councillor Morsillo asked Lt. Schaeublin if there should be anything concerning to the neighbors and if the amount is safe. Lt. Schaeublin replied that anywhere without natural gas uses propane. For example, Crowdis St. He also stated that it is absolutely safe. Councillor Cohen stated he appreciated Mr. Berman but is against the application. There is no such thing as clean propane, and it is much more volatile then natural gas. Spoke in favor of this at the Planning Board because it is a good project for Salem. Has airs source or ground source heat pumps been considered. If the Home Rule Petition relative to fossil fuel is approved, propane gas will no longer be allowed in Salem. He does understand that lots of buildings on Highland Ave. uses propane. Councillor Varela is concerned about the usage of propane and how many times a year will fill ups be required. Why can’t you fill up every week? Mr. Berman replied it is the delivery route of the supplier. They could not just go to his building once a week. Councillor Varela asked if he exhausted options of hybrid. Mr. Berman stated that it is not practical to heat a building like that. We looked into it and it is not for a building of this size. Councillor Varela stated he is voting no. Councillor Dominguez asked where are you in this process? How invested and how far along? We heard from Lt. Schaeublin and he said it is safe. We are not going to solve every environmental issue at once. He is in favor. It has a value to Salem. They will employ local people. Councillor Stott asked if the offices by heat pump. Mr. Berman replied yes. Councillor Prosniewski stated he visited the plant a few years ago and was impressed by how meticulous and organized the factory was. It’s clean and carefully laid out; there are safety signs in multiple languages as well as safety gear. He has no doubt that the tanks will be installed correctly. Mr. Berman is investing in Salem by expanding and  3 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING employing more people. This application meets our standards now. We can’t say no because of issues in general. Councillor McClain stated he is struggling to understand why hybrid is impractical and why the tanks are so large. Mr. Berman stated in regards to the size of the tanks, the energy distributors calculates the amount to power the size of the building. Do not want to run out of gas in the middle of the day. This is what this size building needs. He spoke with three other energy distributors and all said the same. He is planning on putting solar panels on the roof but there is a shortage from China. Building will be pre-wired. The building should be finished middle to late September. Council Merkl stated it is appropriate to speak about the environment as a council. She appreciates him looking into all options. He did his due diligence. She will support. Councillor Watson-Felt asked Lt. Schaeublin how many large businesses with this quantity if there is no gas in that area i.e. Walmart. And what is a better source of heat. Lt. Schaeublin replied does not have the information on him of what each business has; he only knows there is no gas in that area. He cannot say what is the best. He just needs to follow the Fire regulations. Propane and Natural Gas has no odor but an odor is put into both of them. Since this application meets all the requirements, he is in favor of this application. No one appeared opposed. Councillor Morsillo moves that the public hearing be closed. It was so voted. Councillor Morsillo moves that the inflammable license be granted. Councillor Cohen and Councillor Varela recorded as opposed. #285 & #286 - (#274 & #275) – NATIONAL GRID TO INSTALL CONDUITS AND POLE ON 36-38 JEFFERSON AVENUE Appearing in favor was Sabitah Mahbier-Sheehy – Representative for National Grid, 44 River St. Beverly. The conduits and pole are needed to upgrade the service for this address. Councillor Morsillo asked if this was a new pole and also told Sabitah that the Tree Warden needs to ok this location. No one appeared opposed.  4 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Morsillo moves that the public hearing be closed. It was so voted. Councillor Morsillo moves that the order be granted with the condition that the tree warden okays the location of the pole. (#248) – APPOINTMENT OF BRENDAN CASEY TO THE TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMISSION Held from the last meeting the Mayor’s Appointment of Brendan Casey of 29 Briggs St. to serve on the Traffic and Parking Commission with a Term to Expire on May 11, 2024 was confirmed by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. (#249) – APPOINTMENT OF WILLIAM JACOB TO THE CONSERVATION COMMISSION Held from the last meeting the Mayor’s Appointment of William Jacob of 51 Memorial Dr. to serve on the Conservation Commission, with a Term to Expire March 24, 2025 was confirmed by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. #287 – APPOINTMENT OF DANIEL STANWOOD AS CONSTABLE The Mayors Appointment of Daniel V. Stanwood Jr. of 32 Lynde St, to serve as a Constable in the City of Salem with a term to expire May 17, 2026 was received and filed. #288 – MAYOR SUBMITTING FY2024 OPERATING AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN BUDGET The following letter from the Mayor submitting the Fiscal Year 2024 Operating and Capital and Capital Budget was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Council: Enclosed please find the proposed FY2024 operating and capital budgets for the City of Salem and the Salem Public Schools. I am pleased to submit this proposed expenditure plan and recognize that the coming fiscal year presents unique challenges and opportunities for our community.  5 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING With the COVID-19 pandemic and related emergency orders largely behind us and rescinded during calendar year 2023, the related economic effects continue to provide hurdles as it relates to inflation on energy costs, materials and supplies, and appropriate wages. All the same, the Administration focused on another year of level service delivery across our departments, while challenges related to inequitable school aid formulas from the state, aging infrastructure, and a continued affordable housing crisis due to a competitive market continue to impact the community. While this was indeed a noteworthy transition year for the City of Salem with the change of leadership for the Administration, we are equally thrilled to work with our state’s newest top officials, especially including Salem’s former mayor, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. This strong partnership has already enabled effective communications between municipal teams and state leadership so as to advocate for on-going matters which require unified support across our government teams. This includes continued development around wind marshalling, green initiatives across all work, DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) within our contracts, refreshed lens about regional partnerships related to water and sewer, and supporting infrastructure needs to tackle core matters that affects residents, visitors and businesses alike. Our Administration largely focused on stabilization and continuation of the previous policies so as to enable a smooth transition of power, while preparing to welcome our next chief elected official in Mayor Dominick Pangallo. I conducted several in-person tours of businesses and non-profits across the city to ensure all pro-active measures to strengthen and safeguard our local economy continued to make progress. Through a careful focus on department input on both their long and short-term needs, an additional consideration was placed on what we believe is our number resource: our team across all city departments. Gratefully, we were able to maintain consistent staffing levels to provide core government services, and in some areas, were able to welcome critically needed staff to better improve overall municipal management. This includes welcoming a new City Treasurer, Kristen Lindburg; Sustainability Director, Neal Duffy; Tree Warden, Conor Morgan; and Neighborhood Housing Stability Coordinator, Lorelee Stewart. While we may see personnel changes related to the change in leadership, we remain grateful that our teams continue to feature an all-star group of leaders committed to delivering the very best government services and genuinely care for the overall excellence within our great city. Another trend that continued for this fiscal year is our record stabilization levels, bond rating, and considerable levy capacity. We have also enjoyed a low average tax bill increase relative to  6 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING our region and to the considerable increases Salem endured prior to the previous administration. Lastly, while net state aid has been minimal and Salem is being disproportionately and negatively treated under the new Chapter 70 formula, we do have the benefit of one-time relief funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER), and other federal and state sources that we are working to creatively leverage and apply to one-time needs related to recovery or to investing in our capital needs. However, the above once-in-a-lifetime monies are potentially being considered for federal claw backs to assist with ongoing nationwide debt ceiling negotiations, as well as approaching programming deadlines to encumber before their expiration. I have focused on utilizing ARPA dollars to fill any gaps perceived for more immediate needs, especially related to food insecurity which were in jeopardy when state and federal emergency orders - and related funding – expired during FY2023. By continuing our allocation of ARPA dollars toward critical needs, including transportation, affordable housing, emergency management communication improvements, mental health and support for small businesses across all industry types, we strongly believe we have targeted critical needs with critical solutions. Some noteworthy ARPA projects funded in FY2023 that provide a foundation for ongoing impact in FY2024 include: • Festival Support Program: Following the success of the 2022 iteration of the Festival and Special Event Support Program, a second, expanded round of funding was announced for the Spring and Summer of 2023. This funding program is designed to support festival and special events taking place in Salem – prior to the Halloween Season – that need assistance restarting following the economic impacts of the pandemic. The program funded several events across the city. The program investment has expanded from $150,000 to $250,000 for the latest round of funding. • Food Security – Investment into the Salem Pantry: As a valued community partner, the City made additional investments from ARPA into the Salem Pantry’s brick-and-mortar location, The Market, located in The Point neighborhood to assist with operations. This location opened to the public in the Spring of 2023. The location prioritizes fresh, local produce, eggs and dairy, frozen meats, dry goods, and bread availability at no cost to the public. Additional funding was provided to the Salem Pantry to bolster a previous ARPA investment made in the Pantry’s “Farmer’s Truck” which streamlines and optimizes their mobile food distribution process. While the Commonwealth continues to finalize the FY2024 state budget under newly elected Governor Maura Healey, we have been busy working with our partners at the state to advocate for improved support especially related to Chapter 70 and Chapter 90 monies. Overall, the proposed FY2024 Salem budget is $195,847,278, a change of 3.91% over the FY2023 budget. Several collective bargaining agreements settled mid-year in FY2023,  7 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING contributing to atypical increases for several departments, particularly public safety, as two years of salary costs are annualized in FY2024. Fixed costs, such as health insurance, pension and retirement payments, insurance, debt payments, and state and other government assessments, continue to account for about $1 of every $3 in the budget and will increase by roughly $2.1 million in FY2024. As our educators contend with the lingering effects of the pandemic, the tools and staffing needs remain a high priority of interest. Our schools’ budget is $71,154,142, an increase of $2,406,179 or 3.5%, over the FY2023 school budget. This does not include school-related costs that appear elsewhere in the budget, such as school employee health insurance increases, unemployment costs, debt for school building projects, and so forth. When those factors are included, a substantial amount of Salem’s budget is tied to our schools and our students, easily the largest single area of spending. However, with ESSER funds coming to an end over the next year, staffing needs will be challenging as fully funded positions will need to be tied to a budget that doesn’t benefit from these unique one-off federal funds. Thankfully, our financial and schools’ teams continue to work with state leaders to better advocate for revised formula outputs related to Chapter 70, so we are hopeful for creative solutions for the financial forecasting ahead within our schools. The enterprise fund budgets will increase by $609,184, or 3.08%, over the FY2023 enterprise funds budget, due to increases in assessments for these services and the need for ongoing infrastructure maintenance and upgrades. Ordinances have been submitted to you establishing the water and sewer rates necessary to fund these budgets. The increases proposed for FY2024 are based on the recommendations from the water and sewer rate study conducted over the past several months. The FY2024 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is included in this budget, along with the associated bond orders and other proposed capital appropriations to fund these investments. Again, we continue our practice of considering forward-looking capital plans in a responsible and transparent way to plan for future obligations while meeting present-day needs to best serve Salem residents. The FY2024 CIP prioritizes funding projects on a “pay-as-you-go” basis or with short-term capital outlays, as well as retained earnings for enterprise fund projects and ARPA to reduce reliance on debt-financing. With the continued rise of interest rates making borrowing less cost effective, our plan of lessening our long-term debt service payments remains our optimal position. Traditional bonding for key areas – particularly related to infrastructure and water and sewer rates – remains under  8 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING careful watch and consideration by our financial teams, but our excellent bond rating and terrific reserves gives the city plenty of leverage for final decisions in the years ahead. The city’s aging infrastructure remains concerning, especially relating to water and sewer needs. While neighboring communities are targeting dramatically increased water and sewer rates, we have been working with rate consultants to ensure we can avoid any dramatic increases year- over-year. Additionally, Salem continues to appeal for a fair rate in our partnership agreements within the SESD arrangements with advocacy with our state legislators continuing ahead across all partners. The FY2024 capital plan allocates $1.3 million (in addition to our annual state Chapter 90 allocation) for roads, sidewalks, and crosswalks, an increase over FY2023. Additionally, the plan prioritizes investments to finalize several projects, including over $1.6 million for the Willows Pier. Also, over $200,000 in savings is achieved through reallocating vehicles from the discontinued “Getaround” program to departments in need of vehicles. Other capital projects include: • Over $1 million in capital investments for Salem Public Schools, including $700,000 for replacing the Witchcraft Heights Playground; • $648,999 for a new Fire Pump to replace SFD Engine 4; • Funding to continue and expand the body worn cameras program at the Salem Police Department; • Resident permit parking platform and associated license plate readers to set up a more efficient system for residents. ($100,000 in capital funds invested to move that forward.) • Funding to renovate the On Point building to provide services for school parents and other functions. • $30,000 for the Fire Department for a women’s locker room; and, • ADA improvements for dock and float access at Kernwood Marina. Overall, our stabilization fund contains over $16 million thanks to the adoption of best financial practices, prudent finance policies, and careful money management which we remain grateful to the City Council for helping to realize. Despite the past financial difficulties we faced, Salem remains dedicated to policies that foster economic growth, to stable financial management practices, and to sustainable and transparent budgeting. In our budgeting practices, the taxpayers of Salem have always been foremost in mind, and FY2024 is no different. This budget recognizes and respects the impact of property taxes on our residents, especially as many are suffering from the financial hardship afflicting  9 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING many Americans today. Salem has never sought a Proposition 2½ override and we continue to tax below our allowable levy limit. For FY2024, we will continue to maintain excess levy capacity – currently over $7 million – a further demonstration of our prudence and care with taxpayer dollars. Our full team is committed to delivering the very best stewardship and leadership across all critical areas. Whether it is housing needs, fears about growth, the opioids epidemic, changing demographics, or a changing climate, our community is facing many challenges that require strategic and sensible leadership. Furthermore, by taking advantage of unique state and federal opportunities beyond ARPA and ESSER, including Opioid Settlement funding and programming opportunities, and regional transportation planning, and even removing library fines, we must ensure that we continue to be progressive, equitable, but perhaps most importantly, practical. We have worked hard to tackle these challenges by allocating funds to reserve and stabilization accounts to plan for the future and by taking actions like entering into the Group Insurance Commission and annually reassessing the cost-effectiveness of that choice. However, the financial challenges presented by these fixed cost centers are still very real and have a real effect on our budget. Despite those pressures and despite the economic setbacks of the past year, the FY2024 budget maintains our dedication to fiscal responsibility while making important investments to strengthen our community. I am proud of our collective efforts to limit impacts on Salem taxpayers while also providing much needed services to constituents. This is possible due to our joint attentiveness to City finances, as well as our ongoing efforts at identifying efficiencies in the delivery of services. Our fiscal practices have resulted in not only affirmation of our historic high AA bond rating for the last nine years in a row, but also our regular receipt – for fifteen years in a row – of recognitions and awards from the Government Finance Officers’ Association, a national agency that provides professional guidelines for government budgets and fiscal practices. Lastly, another key factor in enhancing our local economy and contributing to new revenues to help meet the projected budget deficit are the public and private investments we continue to see in our community. These projects enhance our short- and long-term economic growth, create much needed housing, add to our tax base, and generate jobs. We are projecting the value increase of new growth for FY2024 at around $1 million; that is $1 million less burden on existing Salem taxpayers. Without responsible new growth we cannot provide the services and improvements that our constituents rightly demand and deserve. Given the reliable increase in fixed costs to the City and the financial challenges of the past year, a reflexively anti-growth position is equivalent to endorsing substantial tax increases on Salem homeowners and reduction  10 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING in critical City services like public safety and public works. With appropriate new growth comes much needed housing, commercial enterprises with jobs, and new revenues to support the needs of Salem taxpayers and local government. In FY2024 we will continue to strive to exceed the service level expectations of our constituents, while simultaneously ensuring fiscal prudency in all expenditures. The mission of City government in Salem is to provide open, honest, and pro-active services effectively and efficiently, focusing on the needs of today, with a vision for the future. To accomplish this, the proposed budget aligns operations with short-term and long-term strategic goals and objectives, while maintaining necessary fiscal controls and a careful attention to our financial forecasts in our budgeting. Balancing the City’s budget in a typical year itself is no easy task, but I want to share a special appreciation that the hard work and cooperation our department heads have put into the preparation of this year’s budget during a time of transition. In particular, I want to extend a special thanks to our Finance Department as led by our Chief Financial Officer Anna Freedman. The department’s work ensured that the budget was ready for submission and in compliance with the high standards we set for ourselves pursuant to GFOA Distinguished Budget guidelines. We are one of only a handful of Massachusetts communities who annually qualify for both a Certificate of Excellence for our Comprehensive Annual Financial Reporting and a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the GFOA. The proposed FY2024 budget represents a strong commitment to the people we are fortunate enough to have been elected to serve. It continues our balanced and responsible approach to City finances. It invests in the critical services that make Salem a vibrant city and one with schools in which we can all take pride – in short, a stronger, more livable city for all. Having served the great City of Salem as Ward Councillor, Council President, and over the past calendar year as Acting Mayor, I’m proud to present this budget and I recommend adoption of the proposed FY2024 budget, CIP, and other associated budgetary measures. I’m especially grateful for the team within the Mayor’s Office, too, and want to extend my gratitude to Jen Wessell, Sarah Cahill, and Chris Sicuranza in particular for their support across the interim Administration – we remain a terrific team and I’m humbled by the collective dedication and service to our citizens, always.  11 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING I look forward to working with you in the coming days upon my return to the Council so as to enact this proposed spending plan to continue ensuring that Salem is a financially strong and professionally administered community. Sincerely, Robert K. McCarthy Acting Mayor, City of Salem #289 – BOND ORDER - $18,982,000.00 – FY2024 WATER & SEWER CIP The following Order submitted by the Mayor for the Fiscal Year 2024 Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Program Funded from Bond Authorization as amended below was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the sum of $18,982,000 be and hereby is appropriated to pay costs of the following capital equipment and capital improvement projects listed under the heading FY24 CIP – Funded from BOND AUTHORIZATION and for the payment of all costs incidental and related there to, and that to meet said appropriation the Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said sum under M.G.L. Chapter 44, Sections 7 and/or 8, or pursuant to any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the City therefor. FY2024 CIP-Funded from BOND AUTHORIZATION Sewer Citywide Drain & Sewer cleaning, inspection, replacement, engineering, GIS, construction $ 400,000.00 Sewer Ocean Ave Stormwater Pump Station $ 10,500,000.00 Sewer Rosie's Pond Flood Protection & Drainage System Improvements - $ 3,820,000.00 Sewer SSES Report Implementation (eliminate I/I sources citywide) $ 600,000.00 Sewer Pump Stations Improvements /Replacement $ 1,650,000.00 Water Citywide Flushing, Valve Repair/Maintenance, Leak detection, GIS $ 400,000.00 Water Water Distribution Main System Improvements $ 800,000.00 Water Water Transmission Main System Improvements $ 812,000.00 TOTAL BOND AUTHORIZATION: $ 18,982,000 Be it further Ordered: That the Mayor and the Treasurer are each authorized to file an application to qualify under Chapter 44A of the Massachusetts General Laws any and all bonds of the City issued under and pursuant hereto, and to provide such information and execute such documents as may be required in connection therewith.  12 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #290 – BOND ORDER – 4,400,000 – FY2024 GENERAL FUND CIP The following order submitted by the Mayor for the Fiscal Year 2024 General Fund Capital Improvement Program Funded from Bond Authorization as amended below was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the sum of $4,400,000 be and hereby is appropriated to pay costs of the following capital equipment and capital improvement projects listed under the heading FY24 CIP- Funded from BOND AUTHORIZATION and for the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto, and that to meet said appropriation the Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said sum under M.G.L. Chapter 44, Sections 7 and 8, or pursuant to any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the City therefor. FY2024 CIP-Funded from BOND AUTHORIZATION Engineering Municipal Citywide Roads, Sidewalks, and Crosswalk Improvements (Non- $ 1,300,000 Fire Fire Pump $ 685,000 Parks & Recreation Willows Pier $ 400,000 Traffic & Parking Fort Ave/Columbus Ave Intersection Re-Design Project $ 1,100,000 Traffic & Parking South Harbor Garage Storm Water Drain & Air Exchange $ 440,000 Upgrades Planning Palmer Cove Park Phase 2 Renovation $ 475,000 TOTAL BOND AUTHORIZATION: $ 4,400,000 Be it further Ordered: That the Mayor and the Treasurer are each authorized to file an application to qualify under Chapter 44A of the Massachusetts General Laws any and all bonds of the City issued under and pursuant hereto, and to provide such information and execute such documents as may be required in connection therewith. #291 – SHORT TERM APPROPRIATION OF $3,904,152.00 FOR FY2024 The following Order submitted by the Mayor for the Fiscal Year 2024 Short-Term Appropriation in the amount of $3,904,152.00 was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the sum of $3,904,152 be and hereby is appropriated as part of the FY 2024 Capital Improvement Plan to be expended as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor.  13 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Department Description Account Amount Building City Hall Camera and Keycard Access 20002422- 5846FW $ 20,000 Building ADA Compliance and Associated Improvements 20002422- 5846FX $ 30,000 Building Annual Priority Small Repairs, Upgrades, FF&E & Associated 20002422- Improvements 5846FY $ 20,000 Clerk Repair Council Furniture 20002403- 5846FZ $ 15,000 Electrical Ford F650 20002408- 5846GA $ 44,000 Electrical Traffic Signal Maintenance 20002408- 5846GB $ 20,000 Electrical ADA walk signal buttons 20002408- 5846GC $ 10,000 Engineering Derby Street Complete Street Phase 3 - 20002429- Municipal 5846GD $ 200,000 Engineering Boston Street Complete Upgrade - Design 20002429- Municipal 5846GE $ 300,000 Fire Build Women's Locker Room add ADA Bathroom 20002410- 5846GF $ 173,000 Fire Fire Annual Repairs/Upgrades 20002410- 5846GG $ 30,000 Fire New Fire Department Light Rescue Truck 20002410- 5846GH $ 8,727 IT Replacement of essential network systems, city-wide, 20002407- including: data center, core network, telephony and SPS 5846GI $ 225,000 wireless. Library Furniture Upgrades 20002414- 5846GJ $ 32,240 Library Glass Door Replacement 20002414- 5846GK $ 30,000 Library ADA Improvements and Associated Repairs at Library 20002414- 5846GL $ 20,000 Park & Electric Charging Stations at the Golf Course 20002417- Recreation 5846GM $ 150,000 Park & Park and Recreation ADA Compliance and Related Repairs 20002417- Recreation 5846GN $ 50,000 Parking Resident Permit Parking Platform 20002418- 5846GO $ 40,000 Parking License Plate Readers 20002418- 5846GP $ 60,000  14 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Parking Museum Place Garage Restoration Phase 3 20002418- 5846GQ $ 150,000 Parking Traffic Calming Capital Improvements 20002418- 5846GR $ 200,000 Parking Parking Infrastructure Improvements, EV, and Equipment 20002418- Install/Maintenance 5846GS $ 150,000 Parking Bicycle Infrastructure Design, Implementation & 20002418- Repairs/Improvements 5846GT $ 50,000 Parking Garage Improvements - Annual Repairs & ADA Compliance 20002418- 5846GU $ 100,000 Planning Charlotte Forten Memorial Project 20002420- 5846GV $ 70,000 Planning Five-Year Consolidated Plan 20002420- 5846GW $ 50,000 Police Workspace Solutions & Upgrades 20002421- 5846GX $ 28,000 Police Body Worn Cameras / Evidence.com / Taser Lease Progrms 20002421- 5846GY $ 105,999 Police Vehicle Replacement Plan - Patrol and Non Patrol 20002421- 5846GZ $ 385,687 Police Variable-Air-Volume (VAV) Rooftop Units 20002421- 5846HA $ 150,000 Police Equipment purchase 20002421- 5846HB $ 35,000 Police Evidence Room 20002421- 5846HC $ 150,000 Public Services Greening Gateways City Grant Match 20002423- 5846HD $ 99,999 Public Services Tyler Time and Attendance Software 20002423- 5846HE $ 16,500 Public Services Trailer Mounted Leaf Vacuum/Loader 20002423- 5846HF $ 170,000 Public Services Annual Small Repairs, DPS Building Studies - DPS & 20002423- Cemeteries 5846HG $ 20,000 Public Services ADA Improvements and Associated Repairs- DPS & 20002423- Cemeteries 5846HH $ 20,000 School Witchcraft Playground 20002425- 5846HI $ 225,000 School MEP & life safety (district) 20002425- 5846HJ $ 150,000 School ADA repairs, districtwide 20002425- 5846HK $ 100,000 TOTAL CAPITAL OUTLAY FUND $ 3,904,152  15 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #292 – APPROPRIATION OF $450,000.00 FOR THE WATER/SEWER CIP PROJECTS The following Order submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the sum of Four Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($450,000.00) is hereby appropriated from the “Retained Earnings – Water/Sewer Fund” account (6000-3120) to the following accounts for the FY2024 capital improvement plan projects as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. FY2024 CIP-Funded from Water/Sewer Fund Retained Earnings Sewer Loring/Cedar Drain Improvements $ 250,000.00 Water Water Meter Replacement Program $ 200,000.00 Total: $ 450,000.00 #293 – APPROPRIATION OF $160,000.00 FOR THE FY2024 CIP PROJECT FOR TRASH TRUCK REPLACEMENT The following Order submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the sum of One Hundred Sixty Thousand Dollars ($160,000.00) is hereby appropriated from the “Retained Earnings – Solid Waste Enterprise Fund” account (6200- 3120) to the following account for the FY2024 capital improvement plan project as listed below in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. FY2024 CIP-Funded from Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings Trash Trash Truck Replacement $ 160,000.00 Total: $ 160,000.00  16 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #294 – APPROPRIATION OF $20,736.38 FOR REPAIRS TO THE SALEM FIRE TOWER LADDER 2 APPARATUS The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted under suspension of the rules. ORDERED: That the sum of Twenty Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Six and Thirty-Eight Cents ($20,736.38) is hereby appropriated within the “Capital Outlay” account (20002310- 5846FV) for repairs to the Salem Fire Tower Ladder 2 apparatus, in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. #295 – APPROPRIATION OF $3,500.00 FOR SICK LEAVE BUYBACK FOR ACTIVE SALEM SUPERIOR POLICE OFFICERS UNION The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted under suspension of the rules. ORDERED: That the sum of Three Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($3,500) is hereby appropriated in the “Retirement Stabilization Fund-Vacation/Sick Leave Buyback” account (83113-5146) to be expended for the sick leave buybacks to be paid out for active employees pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement with the Salem Superior Police Officers Union in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. #296 – DONATION OF $1,500.00 FOR RESTORATION OF STAINED GLASS WINDOWS AT DICKSON MEMORIAL CHAPEL The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. ORDERED: To accept the donation from Friends of Greenlawn in the amount of One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) for the restoration of the stained-glass windows project on the Dickson Memorial Chapel in Greenlawn Cemetery. These funds will be deposited into the Planning Donation Account #24071-4830 in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. #297 – DONATION OF $1,200.00 FOR CARDINAL BENCH The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. ORDERED: To accept the donation of One Thousand Two Hundred Dollars ($1,200.00) from The Compton Family. The donation is to be deposited into the Parks and Recreation Donation Fund 2406 (24061-4830) for a standard cardinal bench in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor  17 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #298 – DONATION OF $1,200.00 FOR A CARDINAL BENCH The following Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. ORDERED: To accept the donation of One Thousand Two Hundred Dollars ($1,200.00) from Kathleen Doyle. The donation is to be deposited into the Parks and Recreation Donation Fund 2406 (24061-4830) for a standard cardinal bench in accordance with the recommendation of His Honor the Mayor. #299 – REVOLVING FUNDS FOR FY2024 The following Order submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the Salem City council vote, pursuant to the provisions of MGL Chapter 44, Section 53E ½ to authorize the establishment of the revolving funds for fiscal year 2024 has herein described. Expenditures from said funds shall not exceed the amount of funds received in the respective accounts or as authorized as stated, shall come from any funds received by respective boards for performing services, shall be used solely for the purpose of implementing the programs delineated and shall be approved by a majority vote of any respective boards in accordance with His Honor the Mayor. Dept. Fund Name Fund # Programs & Purposes Type of Receipts Credited Authorization FY 2024 Budg for Spending Request Maximum Ann Expenditures COA COA 2374 To defray program costs Revenues and fees COA Director 40,000.00 Programs including instructors, charged for programs and Mayor presenters, entertainment, decorations, food, etc. Electrical Telecom 2376 To fund public information Application fees and City 50,000.00 technology, rental revenue from Electrician telecommunication and telecommunications and Mayor electrical initiatives and attachments pursuant to projects sections 12-125 and 12- 170 of the City Ordinances Fire R/A Local 2433 Training and special Fees charged to persons Fire Chief 40,000.00 Emergency equipment needed to spilling or releasing and Mayor Planning respond to hazardous hazardous materials Comm materials incidents per CH 21E  18 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Harbormaster R/A WI 2368 To Fund Capital items for Fees charged for Boat Harbormaster 55,000.00 STORAGE Harbormaster,maintenance and Float Storage at and Mayor costs of equipment and Winter Island and maritime access projects. Kernwood Marina Health Dept Health Clinics 2364 To support vaccination Reimbursements from Health Agent 20,000.00 program and other Health vaccination programs and Mayor Promotion activities of the Health Department Mayor Special Events 2361 To cover expenses for Revenue from RFP's for Mayor 125,000.00 Fireworks, bands, portable services from vendors, potties and other and from misc unanticipated expenditures sponsorships. Recreation Winter Island 2362 To increase and replenish Revenue from sale of Recreation Store store inventory as needed inventory/services at Director and 40,000.00 and to enhance and Winter Island. Mayor maintain Winter Island Store & Facilities. Recreation Proctor's 2384 For Maintenance of Revenue of 25 cents from Recreation 12,000.00 Ledge Proctor's Ledge site the sale of each ticket at Director and the Witch House. Mayor Recreation Road Race 2385 For Park Maintenance Field rental fees and five Recreation 6,000.00 Fees percent of race and event Director and registration fees. Mayor Recreation Dog Park 2435 Renovations and Fee charged for pass to Recreation 5,000.00 Maintenance of Dog Park use dog park (pooch Director and at Leslie's Retreat Park. pass). $25. annually for Mayor pass. Recreation Park & Rec 2452 To be used for the Parking and launch fees Recreation 50,000.00 Public Access operation and charged at McCabe Director and maintenance of Winter Marina & Winter Island Mayor Island and McCabe Marina Recreation Salem Willows 2459 Renovations and Money generated from Recreation 30,000.00 Meters Maintenance of Willows Willows Meters Director and Park. Mayor Recreation Witch House 2499 To support Salem Award 25 cent surcharge to Recreation 10,000.00 committee and the Salem tickets beginning in May Director and Witch Trial Memorial 2009 Mayor Planning & Old Town Hall 2373 Maintenance costs of old Rental revenue of old Director of 50,000.00 Community town hall town hall Planning and Development Mayor  19 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Planning & Derby 2375 Improvements for Derby Vendor fees from Derby Director of 50,000.00 Community Square/Artists' Square and Artists' Row Square Flea/Salvage Art Planning and Development Row including outdoor Market, Rent and Vendor Mayor furniture, signage, lighting, Fees at Artists Row public art, marketing and stipends for performers Sustainability/ Utility Energy 2377 To be used for City Credits or payments Director of 250,000.00 Planning & Credit Fund projects or programs that received for City projects Planning and Community reduce utility costs, use, or programs that Mayor Development and/or emissions. This specifically result in may include personnel reduction in utility costs, costs associated with use, or emissions. participation in the programs that generate the credits. Planning & Bike Sharing 2383 To receive and expend Revenue from rentals Director of 50,000.00 Community revenue from bike share and annual memberships Planning and Development program for system Mayor operation and promotion Planning & Salem 2453 Fund operational costs of Fees received during the Director of 500,000.00 Community Ferry/Salem the Salem Ferry and season for leasing of the Planning Development Wharf operating, maintenance, Salem Wharf, MBTA and Mayor Operational capital repairs, security, Salem Passes, and fuel utilities related to Salem reimbursements Wharf Insp Services Abandoned 2371 To maintain abandoned Registration fees Inspectional 85,000.00 Prop Maint and foreclosing residential ($300.00) for vacant Services and commercial properties and/or foreclosing Director and residential properties. Mayor Public Services Tree 2330 To replace trees removed Revenue from contributions Director of 30,000.00 Replacement during construction as per the Tree Ordinance or Public directed by the Tree Warden Planning Board decision Services And or Planning Board Mayor Engineering Traffic Island 2439 Projects related to City Primarily from: Traffic City 20,000.00 beautification events Island Sponsorships, Engineer including Traffic Island, Special Events and Mayor Beautification, and special Revenues, Event and events Beautification effort sponsors Treasurer Tax Title NEW Costs incurred for legal Any fees, charges and Treasurer 40,000.00 fees associated with tax costs incurred under and Mayor title process sections 15, 55, 62, 65, 68 or 79 of M.G.L. Chapter 60 and collected upon the redemption of tax titles and sales of real property acquired through foreclosures of tax titles TOTALS 1,558,000.00  20 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #300 – ESTABLISHING A REVOLVING FUND FOR TAX TITLE COLLECTION The following Order submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Administration and Finance co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. ORDERED: That the City of Salem hereby accepts Massachusetts General Law Chapter 60, Section 15B to allow the City to establish by vote of the Salem City Council a Tax Title Collection Revolving Funds for the City Collector. Such Tax Title Collection Revolving Fund shall be accounted for separately from all other monies and to which shall be credited any fees, charges and costs incurred by such officer under sections 15, 55, 62, 65, 68 or 79 of M.G.L. Chapter 60 and collected upon the redemption of tax titles and sales of real property acquired through foreclosures of tax titles. Expenditures may be made from such revolving fund without further appropriation, subject to the provisions of the accepted section; provided, however, that expenditures shall not be made or liabilities incurred from this revolving fund in excess of the balance of the fund nor in excess of the total authorized expenditures from this fund, nor shall any expenditures be made unless approved in accordance with sections 52 and 56 of M.G.L. Chapter 41. #301 – ORDINANCE AMENDING RATES FOR USE OF WATER The following Ordinance submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Rates for Use of Water Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Chapter 46, Section 66 is hereby amended by deleting subparagraph (b) in its entirety and replacing it with the following: “(b) The rate for all water furnished by meter measurements effective July 1, 2023, shall be as follows: (1) Residential, per 100 cubic feet $4.06 (2) Nonresidential, per 100 cubic feet $5.49 Section 2. Chapter 46, Section 66 is hereby further amended by deleting subparagraph (e) in its entirety and replacing it with the following: “(e) The minimum rate for residential metered water for each quarter shall be $40.60 per 1000 cubic feet effective July 1, 2023.  21 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING The use of all water and sewer funds and SESD funds shall be excluded from all private development projects.” Section 3. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #302 – ORDINANCE AMENDING SEWER USER CHARGES The following Ordinance submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Sewer User Charges Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section I. Chapter 46, Section 230 is hereby amended by deleting subsection (c) in its entirety and replacing it with the following: “(c) The rates for sewer use charges effective July 1, 2023, shall be as follows: Residential, per 100 cubic feet… $ 7.81 Nonresidential, per 100 cubic feet up to 25,000 cubic feet per month $11.83 Nonresidential, per 100 cubic feet for 25,000 cubic feet and greater per month $15.15 The use of all water and sewer funds and SESD funds shall be excluded from all private development projects.” Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #303 – ORDINANCE AMENDING AN ORDINANCE RELATIVE TO SOLID WASTE MANGEMENT The following Ordinance submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. An Ordinance to amend an ordinance relative to solid waste management. Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows:  22 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Section 1. 1) Chapter 36, Section 36-6 Collection fee for certain residences is hereby amended by deleting the fee of “$20.50” as it appears in paragraph (a) and replacing it with the fee of “$21.12” and further amending this paragraph (a) by deleting the fee of “$130.25” and replacing it with a fee of “$134.16”. 2) Chapter 36, Section 36-8 Collection fee for certain commercial establishments is hereby amended by deleting the fee of “$29.75” and replacing it with the fee of “$30.64”. Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #304 – MAYOR’S VETO OF RESOLUTION RELATIVE TO THE ENFORCEMENT AND PRACTICES RELATED TO PSILOCYBIN The following letter from the Mayor vetoing the Resolution relative to the enforcement and practices related to psilocybin – no action for 7 days under the Charter. Ladies and Gentlemen of the City Council: In accordance with Section 55 of the City of Salem Charter, I am offering my VETO and returning, with written objections, Resolution 269A of 2023 adopted by the City Council on May 11, 2023, ordering the Mayor to adopt a resolution relative to enforcement and practices related to psilocybin. I fully appreciate the passion and interest that the Council has in furthering our commitment to mental health and related stigmas associated with various medicinal alternatives. Having not personally attended all the related Sub-Committee and Council meetings on the topic, I want to be respectful of the process and the collective deliberation and leadership relative to this topic. However, upon follow-up with related law enforcement leaders, especially including Police Chief Lucas Miller, our understanding is that final language included terminology that was originally designed to be omitted. In particular, any language that includes the words “distribution” will not be authorized under this Administration. My objections to this Resolution remain solely focused on the inclusion of the word “distribution,” as we strongly believe this encourages illicit operations that will not be compatible with a lawful society. However, should the Council submit a revised proposal – which we strongly encourage – with these adjustments, we will welcome the matter for successful final adoption. Sincerely, Robert K. McCarthy, Acting Mayor, City of Salem  23 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #305 – TRAFFIC ORDINANCE AMENDING HANDICAP PARKING - FORRESTER STREET The following ordinance introduced by Councillor Watson-Felt was adopted for first passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-three An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Traffic, Ch. 42 Sec. 50B Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Chapter 42, Section 50B – “Handicap Zone Limited Time” is hereby amended by adding the following: In front of #44 Forrester Street for a distance of 20 feet, “Handicap Parking, Limited Time, Tow Zone” Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #306 - TRAFFIC ORDINANCE AMENDING PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN STREETS The following Ordinance introduced by Councillor Cohen was adopted for first passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Three An Ordinance Relative to Traffic Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Ch. 42 Section 51 – “Parking Prohibited on certain streets” Jefferson Ave – Parking Prohibited on Certain Streets – starting at the driveway at 399 Jefferson Avenue and running east for 35 feet. Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter.  24 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #307 – (#167 & #169) – TAXI OPERATOR HEARING FOR LUZ SANCHEZ Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs to whom it was referred the matter of holding a hearing on the denial of a Taxi Operator License for Luz Sanchez, has considered said matter and would recommend that the action taken is dependent upon the outcome of the hearing. If the case is dismissed or closed the license shall be granted; if not then the license shall be denied. #308 – (#168 & #214) - TAXI OPERATOR HEARING FOR DENNIS DUVAL Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs to whom it was referred the matter of holding a hearing on the denial of Taxi Operator License for Dennis Duval, has considered said matter and would recommend that the denial be upheld. #309 – (#212 & #213) – TAXI OPERATOR HEARING FOR ALEXIE QUIONES Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs to whom it was referred the matter of holding a hearing on the denial of Taxi Operator License for Alexie Quiones, has considered said matter and would recommend that the denial be upheld. #310 – (#237) – CLOSING A PORTION OF ESSEX STREET FOR OUTDOOR DINING FOR BELLA VERONA Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation as amended.  25 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom it was referred the matter of discussing a petition from Bella Verona requesting to close down Essex St., from Hawthorne Blvd. to Union St. for outdoor seating from May 11th thru November 15, 2023, has considered said matter and would recommend that the matter be granted. Councillor Morsillo brought forward conditions to adopt for the above. They are as follows: The direction should state: Essex St, from Hawthorne Blvd to Union St, in the easterly direction only. As well as these four (4) Conditions: 1. Jersey barriers to delineate the dining area be placed at the edge of the property with Moody’s 2. Improved signage for detouring around the seating, including specific Detour signs to get drivers from Hawthorne Blvd, around the closure, and back to Essex Street. 3. Work with the Hawthorne Hotel to educate guests relative to street closures 4. Other recommendations that may be made by the traffic and parking department, DPS, and the Police Traffic division. The amendments were so voted. The police department did not support when in front of the licensing board. All other establishments were approved except Bella Verona. Disappointed by letters against other business raising safety concerns and letters saying the Council is against businesses. Lt. Tucker is against. It is not an equity issue but a safety issue. Councillor Merkl stated this one is different. It’s the only one that involves a road closure. But it is not one size fits all for all restaurants. It is difficult not to go along with the Police and Traffic and Parking Commission but public safety position seems less clear now. Councillor Hapworth supports local businesses. They are relying on outdoor dining right now. Lack of clarity around emails. No traffic study in front of them. More of a property dispute. Usually backs public safety recommendations, but will grant this request today. Reminded that if approved tonight still needs to go back to Licensing Board to get approval and may get more conditions.  26 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Cohen in favor of the amendments. Restaurant has expressed need for outdoor dining or will go out of business. Councillor Prosniewski stated that Salem has changed its traffic patterns over the years. One ways have been reversed or added, in the 1970’s part of Essex Street was shut down for the businesses (aka pedestrian mall). This business is only asking for one small block to be made one-way. There are bump-outs on Derby Streets for restaurants, platforms for outdoor dining on Washington Street removing needed parking spaces. Right now, no policies or ordinances to go by. This is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and is minority run. These conditions are very reasonable and fair. Data from police station regarding incidents and complaints on delay of response showed a total of 3 complaints and 2 were not for Bella Verona. Councillor Cohen stated we need to make the best decision with what we have in front of us. Believes this is an equity issue. The world has changed; people want to eat outside especially if have health conditions. Councillor Watson-Felt stated these amendments help address her concerns. Road Closures and Supporting Outdoor Dining are 2 different issues. Heard neighbors were against it. Time limited for this year only. Councillor Varela stated we have a few things we can do as Councillors. This is an equity issue and taking food out of people’s mouths. Dining has changed in Salem. Councillor Morsillo’s motion to adopt as amended was so voted. #311 – (#111) – AMENDING TRAFFIC ORDINANCES FOR RILEY PLAZA Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. It was voted to accept the report. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs to whom it was referred the amending traffic ordinances relative to Ch. 42 Sec. 50A, 56, 57C and 17A for Riley Plaza has considered said matter and would recommend adoption for first passage. There are 118 total spaces available in Riley Plaza. There are 11 metered spots, 4 accessible spots, 2 zip car spots, and 101 permit spaces. This will remove the 11 metered space and make them permit spaces for a total of 112 permitted parking spaces. Councillor Cohen noted that the newsstand is problematic, but we should pass this.  27 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Watson-Felt stated there is not enough data or signage. There are not enough spots downtown. Councillor Varela said he is in favor after talking with the permit holders. Councillor Prosniewski stated he has heard from constituents. There are only 11 spots that Salem residents can use to run into the post office or Steve’s Market Councillor Watson-Felt mentioned these spots are also used by residents to visit family and small businesses and support Gedney St. Councillor Morsillo stated we could adjust parking for the month i.e. weekdays for residents and weekends permits are needed. Adoption for first passage did not carry. (Hand vote 4 yeas, 6 nays) #312 – (#112) – INCREASE MONTHLY PERMIT FEE FOR RILEY PLAZA Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs to whom was referred the matter of an Order to purchase monthly permit from $30 to $50 to park in Riley Plaza Monday – Sundays 8AM – 6PM, has considered said matter and would recommend adoption. #313 – (#271 of 2022) – ARPA FUNDS Councillor Stott offered the following report for the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee of the Whole to whom was referred the matter of discussing the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Program and provide a public update on the work undertaken to date and the plan moving forward to leverage our first round of ARPA funds for a robust recovery from the pandemic, has considered said matter and would recommend that the matter remain in committee. Councillor Stott recapped that there was $35 Million available, $30.5 Million has been allocated, $4.2 Million has actually been filed for. They reviewed the time line and the restrictions of where the money can be spent and by when. Deadline is December 24, 2024.  28 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #314 – (#232, #265 & #314A) – ORDINANCE AMENDING SCHOOL COMMITTEE COMPENSATION Councillor Morsillo offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs to whom was referred the matter to review the Compensation of the School Committee, Ch 2, Article 4, Division 11 (School Committee), Sec 2-142 (Compensation) and to craft an ordinance to update language regarding compensation, has considered said matter and would recommend that the following ordinance be adopted for first passage. #314A – ORDINANCE AMENDING SCHOOL COMMITTEE COMPENSATION In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Three An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to School Committee Compensation Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section I. Chapter 2, Section 2-956. Compensation of members is hereby amended by deleting the first two sentences of this section and replacing them with the following: “Commencing January 1, 2024, members of the school committee, with the exception of the mayor, shall receive a salary equal to eight percent of the salary of the mayor in effect on January 1st of each year. This salary shall be paid to members biweekly.” Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter #315 – ACCEPT MGL CH. 41, SEC. 110A – TO ALLOW THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE TO REMAIN CLOSED ON SATURDAYS The following order submitted by the City Clerk/ Chief Election Official was adopted ORDERED: In accordance with MGL Chapter 41, Section 110A the City Council hereby authorizes the City Clerk’s Office to remain closed on any or all Saturdays as may be determined from time to time, and to treat Saturdays as a legal holiday for the purpose of calculating the time frame for filing matters in that office.  29 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #316 – BLOCK PARTY – NORTHEY STREET The request from residents of Northey St. to hold a Block Party on July 23, 2023, from 4:30PM – 8:30PM was granted. #317 – BLOCK PARTY – NORTH SHORE CDC – PEABODY STREET The request from North Shore CDC (Peabody Street), to hold a Block Party on September 30, 2023, from 2:00PM – 6:00PM was granted. #318 – PUBLIC GUIDE APPLICATIONS The Following License Applications were granted. PUBLIC GUIDES: Beth Crowley 100 Federal St., Salem Chloe Rourke-Nicholas 6 Andover St., Salem Olivia Giroux-Galpin 15 Orne St., North Attleboro Rachel Justin 115 Lowell St., Peabody Kayla Sullivan 11 Winthrop Ave, Beverly Tremayne Magnus 32 Wenonah St., Boston Corey Fedde 27 Dunlap St., Salem #319 – LICENSE APPLICATIONS The Following License Applications were referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. SEAWORMS: Paul Lynch 28 Anawan Ave., Saugus Timothy Lynch 28 Anawan Ave., Saugus Manuel Grieco 13 Pearl St., Salem #320 - #322 – CLAIMS The Following Claims were referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. Donald Hueckels 392 Essex St., Salem Laura Provost 233 Lafayette St., Salem Dan Robitaille 39 Crowdis St., Salem  30 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING #323 - BONDS The Following Bond was referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs and returned approved. CONSTABLE: Daniel V. Stanwood, 32 Lynde St., Salem (#255) - SECOND PASSAGE OF A TRAFFIC ORDINANCE FOR A HANDICAP SPACE IN FRONT OF #227 NORTH STREET. The second passage of this traffic ordinance was then taken up. The Ordinance was adopted for second and final passage. In the year two thousand and twenty-three An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Traffic Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Chapter 42, Section 50B – “Handicap Zone Limited Time” is hereby amended by adding the following: North Street - in front of #227 North Street, running in a southerly direction for a distance of twenty (20) feet, “Handicap Parking, Limited Time, Tow Zone” Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. (#256) - SECOND PASSAGE OF A TRAFFIC ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 17B BY DELETING $20.00 The second passage of this traffic ordinance was then taken up. The Ordinance was adopted for second and final passage. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Three An Ordinance Relative to Traffic Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows:  31 CITY OF SALEM MAY 25, 2023 REGULAR MEETING Section 1. Section 17 – Penalties of Article I is hereby amended by deleting the following from Section 17B - Municipal Parking Lot Made Available for Local Youth Fundraising: of $20.00 Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. On the motion of Councillor Dominguez the meeting adjourned at 10:06 P.M. ATTEST: ILENE SIMONS CITY CLERK